HC Deb 03 July 1906 vol 159 c1613
* MR. CATHCART WASON

I beg to ask the Under-Secretary of State for the Colonies if ho is aware of the limited quantity of timber in East Africa, and the effect that a material diminution of the same would have on the rainfall and the climate; and whether he proposes to take any action in the matter.

MR. CHURCHILL

The Secretary of State is fully aware of the importance of forest conservation in the East African Protectorate, and is arranging to send an expert to report on the question at an early date.

* MR. CATHCART WASON

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this timber is more wanted in East Africa itself than in South Africa?

MR. CHURCHILL

was understood to say that as the timber would be carried over the Uganda Railway he did not see that it was the duty of the Government to object to its going to South Africa.